Meat Buns

Heads up, lovers of all things beefy, buttery and bready! These meat buns will make your snacktime dreams come true. They’re packed with savory ground beef, tender cabbage and gooey cheddar cheese all wrapped up in a buttered dough that’ll have you doing the happy dance with every bite. These buns are the ultimate when you’re looking for a snack that packs a punch and has the whole gang lining up for more. Get ready to sink your teeth into something truly epic.

Ingredients for Meat Buns

• Active dry yeast: The yeast activates and ferments in the warm water causing the dough to rise and become airy.
• Warm water: It dissolves the yeast and helps activate it, creating the right environment for the dough to rise.
• Sugar: Sugar feeds the yeast, promoting fermentation and contributing a slight sweetness to the dough.
• Egg: This adds richness and moisture to the dough, helping to bind the ingredients together.
• Salt: It enhances the flavor of the dough and also strengthens the gluten structure, improving the dough’s texture.
• Bread flour: Bread flour provides the necessary protein content to create a strong gluten network, resulting in a chew and structured bun.
• Ground beef: The beef serves as the hearty, savory base of the filling, adding a rich flavor and substantial texture.
• Cabbage: This hearty vegetable adds a slight crunch and mild sweetness, balancing the richness of the beef.
• Onion: Onions infuse the filling with a deep, savory flavor that compliments the beef and cabbage.
• Salt and pepper: These season the filling and enhance the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables.
• Cheddar cheese: The cheese melts into the filling adding creaminess and a sharp, tangy flavor that contrasts with the beef.
• Butter: Brushing the buns with melted butter before baking gives them a golden brown, slightly crispy exterior and adds richness.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Add the sugar, egg, salt and 1 cup of flour to the bowl. Beat the mixture on low speed for 3 minutes until smooth. Gradually add enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.

Step 2: Knead the dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured cutting board and knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, about six to eight minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl and turn it once to grease the top. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, about one hour.

Step 3: Cook the filling

While the dough is rising, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the chopped cabbage, onion, salt and pepper. Cover the skillet and cook the mixture over medium heat for 15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Allow the filling to cool while the dough finishes rising.

Step 3: Shape the buns

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. On a floured surface, gently roll each piece into a 5-inch circle. Place about 1/4 cup of the cooled filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling, bringing the edges together in the center. Pinch the edges to seal the bun completely.

Step 4: Let the buns rise

Place the sealed buns seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. Cover the baking sheet with a towel and let the buns rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until they have doubled in size. Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 5: Bake the buns

Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter just before baking. Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until they are golden brown. Serve the buns warm.

Meat Bun Variations

• Make pork buns: Swap the ground beef for ground pork to create a slightly sweeter and juicier filling with a different flavor profile.
• Add spices for a kick: Use spices like cumin, chili powder or paprika into the filling to give the buns a flavorful kick with a bit of heat.
• Make them extra cheesy: Double the amount of cheddar cheese or mix in some mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra cheesy and gooey filling.
• Try a whole wheat dough: Substitute half of the bread flour with whole wheat flour to create a heartier bun with a slightly nutty flavor.

How to Store Meat Buns

To store leftover meat buns, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can you freeze meat buns?

Yes! Meat buns freeze beautifully, making them a convenient make-ahead meal or snack. Allow the buns to cool completely and then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped buns in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and they’ll stay fresh for up to three months.

How do you reheat meat buns?

Preheat your oven to 350°F. If the buns are frozen, there’s no need to thaw them first—just place them on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat the buns for 15 to 20 minutes or until the buns are warmed through. For refrigerated buns, reduce the heating time to about 10 minutes.

Meat Bun Tips

What are some other dishes that pair well with meat buns?

Meat buns pair wonderfully with a fresh, crisp salad like cucumber salad or tomato salad. You could also serve them alongside a bowl of tangy coleslaw or a warm and comforting tomato soup or potato leek soup. A side of roasted vegetables would also be welcome.

What would be a good dip to serve with meat buns?

A variety of dips pair well with meat buns. A tangy barbecue sauce adds a smoky sweetness that complements the savory filling. Homemade ranch would be another winning dip for these meat buns.

Can these meat buns be made vegetarian?

Yes, these meat buns can easily be made vegetarian by swapping out the ground beef for a plant-based alternative, such as crumbled tofu, tempeh or meatless ground beef substitute. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture of the filling.